CBP, LAWA issue proactive international travel guidance

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) personnel said the entities are implementing proactive measures to address anticipated 2021 summer season passenger demand.

“CBP is proactively mitigating any potential impact in wait times by maximizing our available resources,” Carlos C. Martel, CBP director of Field Operations in Los Angeles, said. “In order to improve the traveler experience this summer, we are realigning personnel during the peak hours and will be constantly adjusting those resources based on passenger demand.”

CBP officials indicated the agency is anticipating daily passenger counts to reach 18,000, compared to 4,500 passengers per day during summer 2020, which the CBP noted represents an increase of over 300 percent.

Per the CBP, agency personnel staffed at LAX will maximize the use of biometric technology to expedite passenger processing while also working with industry partners and stakeholders on passenger flow efficiencies and explaining how to prepare to avoid unnecessary delays.

“As travelers return to our airports this summer, they’ll find that LAX and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have integrated the very latest in touchless technology to create a safer, cleaner, and more efficient experience,” Los Angeles World Airports CEO Justin Erbacci said. “Whether it’s the use of biometric identification or the fast and easy-to-use Mobile Passport app, passengers entering the country through LAX have many options to ensure a faster and smoother journey.”